In desperate need of a java fix one morning after a long night out, I found coffee solace in Roseville’s Shady Coffee & Tea, a cozy independent shop with serious soul.

The exposed brick walls, rich wood furniture and accents, and vintage décor exuded a strong, old-world feel. The shop also features plenty of personal tables – perfect for getting your work done in a comfortable atmosphere. Off the pleasantly simple menu, I chose a Chocolate Chip Scone and a brewed-to-perfection Americano. The scone, creamier and flakier than any biscuit I’ve ever had, was studded with velvety dark chocolate chips that melted on my tongue as I took each bite. I nibbled away while sipping on my espresso, the morning light softly streaming into the homey shop.

Shady trees out back create the perfect enclave for enjoying your food and drink on a balmy fall morning, afternoon or night. Open until 10 p.m. most evenings, Shady also sells artisan beer and loose-leaf tea. Shady Coffee & Tea, 325 Douglas Boulevard, Roseville. 916-742-4117, shadycoffeeandtea.com.